Climb every mountain in the French Alps

Snow-topped mountains, plunging valleys, sparkling lakes, and meadow-covered hillsides, the French Alps, home to Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak at 4,807m, are a mighty fine place to breathe in the fresh air.

Hiking, biking, climbing and watersports keep summer visitors active, though it's once the temperature drops that the hills really come alive.

These slopes draw skiers and snowboarders from all over Europe, from holidaying families to party-hearty youngsters here to work (and play) the whole season.

The huge number of resorts and connected ski areas, with Three Valleys, Portes du Soleil and Paradiski among the largest, means that there's something to suit all levels of ability, from absolute beginners to experts and everyone in between.

It's not all about the great outdoors, either - worthy day-trips include the lively student centre of Grenoble, pretty-as-a-picture Annecy and elegant spa town of Evian-les-Bains.